Cyclodextrin
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Cornstarch
Derived from cornstarch and made via biotechnology | Used in cosmetics to stabilise and help solubilize key ingredients
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Cyclodextrin?
Cyclodextrin is a cyclic (that’s what the “cyclo” portion of its name means) complex sugar (dextran) known as a polysaccharide. It is obtained from plants and produced for cosmetics, foods, and pharmaceuticals via biotechnology involving a reaction between enzymes and cornstarch.
Available in three different shapes depending on application need, cyclodextrin works in cosmetics as an absorbent, chelating agent, and more importantly helps stabilize, solubilize and ensure delivery of key ingredients to skin. For example, cyclodextrins can make water-soluble ingredients more oil-soluble, enhancing their penetration and bioavailability. They can also protect delicate ingredients from degradation due to light, air and heat exposure.
As the sugars in the cyclodextrin break down, the ingredients contained inside their hollow center are released.
Since cyclodextrin is a food-grade ingredient considered safe to consume, it is also deemed safe as used in cosmetics. It’s considered non-irritating and non-sensitizing. Usage levels in cosmetics vary depending on formulary goals and ingredients being encapsulated in the cyclodextrins. A typical usage range falls between 0.3–10%.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2021, pages 263–268 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ics.12674]
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Pharmaceutics, August 2019, pages 1–18 [https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/11/8]
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The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, July 2018, pages 865–873 [https://academic.oup.com/jpp/article-abstract/70/7/865/6121863]
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Molecules, December 2017, pages 1–11 [https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/22/1/1]
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Journal of Cosmetic Science, May-June 2002, pages 185–191 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12053209/]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Caprylhydroxamic Acid
A chelating agent that stabilises formulations and supports product efficacy
Citric Acid
Used in small amounts to adjust the pH of products | Originally derived from citrus fruits
Citrus Medica Vulgaris Fruit Extract
A citrus-derived antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stressors
Dipotassium EDTA
A chelating agent that stabilises formulations and supports product efficacy
Disodium EDTA
One of the salt forms of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid | Helps enhance the stability of cosmetics formulas
EDTA
AKA ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid | Stabiliser used in cosmetics
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